Welcome to the Pasifika Dental Association! We are a dedicated organization committed to promoting oral health and wellness within Pasifika communities. Our mission is empowering our Pasifika oral health professionals through our pillars of partnership, advocacy, workforce development and connection.
The association was established in 2021, amidst the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when oral health professionals, like many others, experienced isolation. It was during this period that the founding president of the Association, Dr Tule Misa, recognized the importance of connection among like-minded individuals who shared a common vision. This realization prompted her to embark on a quest to gather dedicated oral health professionals from across the nation to create the first executive committee of the Pasifika Dental Association.
Our association recognizes the unique challenges and needs of Pasifika people and realises that there is a need to empower and grow our Pasifika workforce who can then support our Pasifika people. In Aotearoa, our Pasifika people have significantly poor oral health outcomes, and we have a very small number of Pasifika oral health professionals to cater for this need. To effectively tackle the oral health disparities that persist within our Pasifika communities, it is essential to first cultivate and develop our Pasifika oral health professionals, which has become a fundamental aspect of our association’s vision. We are committed to supporting our Pasifika oral health professionals so that they can more effectively assist our people living in Aotearoa.
THE FOUR PILLARS
At Pasifika dental Association, advocacy is at the heart of our mission. We strive to represent the voices of Pasifika dental professionals, promoting equitable access to dental care and addressing the unique challenges our communities face. Together, we influence policies that foster a healthier future for all.
Connection is essential to our community. We create networks that empower Pasifika dental professionals to share knowledge, experiences, and support. Through workshops, events, and online platforms, we facilitate meaningful interactions that strengthen professional relationships and enhance collaboration, ensuring that our members feel valued and engaged.
Our commitment to workforce development focuses on nurturing the next generation of Pasifika dental professionals. We offer mentorship, training opportunities, and resources to help individuals thrive in their careers. By investing in education and skills development, we aim to build a strong, diverse workforce that reflects our communities.
Partnerships are vital to our success. We collaborate with healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and community groups to amplify our impact. By fostering these relationships, we create opportunities for joint initiatives that enhance dental care access and improve health outcomes for Pacific Island communities, driving positive change together.
